Department of Agriculture Bursary

1. 1

   Go to www.nda.gov.za and open the Vacancies page, then download the Bursary Awards Advert and the full-time undergraduate application form (Annexure B1)

2. 2

   Check that your intended qualification is on the list and that you meet the Mathematics and Physical Science levels; mark only one field of study on the form

3. 3

   Complete the form in block letters (Grade 12 learners need the principal's signature and school stamp) and attach certified supporting documents

4. 4

   Email the completed form and documents to [email protected] before the closing date - the 2027 round closed on 30 September 2026, and late or incomplete applications are not considered

5. 5

   If your university acceptance letter or final results are outstanding, submit them within three days of the Grade 12 results release in January

6. 6

   Only successful applicants are contacted; if you hear nothing within 14 days of the Grade 12 results release (after the National Bursary Committee has finalised selection), consider your application unsuccessful

Frequently Asked Questions

Which fields does the Department of Agriculture bursary cover?

Only the 17 qualifications listed in the 2027 advert: agricultural (bioresource) engineering, veterinary science, veterinary nursing, veterinary technology, BSc Agric programmes in entomology, food science, animal health, plant pathology, plant science, soil science, agronomy and viticulture and oenology, BAS Food Science and Technology, the Diploma in Food Technology, Advanced Diplomas in agriculture-related fields, and BSc Agric Honours in plant pathology or entomology. Other fields are not considered.

When is the Department of Agriculture bursary deadline?

Applications for the 2027 academic year closed on 30 September 2026, and late applications are not considered. The previous round also closed on 30 September (2025). As of 12 October 2026 the Department had not announced the 2028 round; adverts are posted on the Vacancies page of nda.gov.za.

Can I apply before my Grade 12 results are out?

Yes. Grade 12 learners could apply while waiting for final results and university acceptance letters, but the outstanding documents had to be submitted within three days of the Grade 12 results release in January 2027.

Is this the same as the DALRRD bursary?

It is the same national agriculture bursary scheme. Since the former Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development was split in 2024, it has been run by the Department of Agriculture: the 2027 adverts were published on nda.gov.za and applications went to [email protected] (the 2026 round used a dalrrd.gov.za address).

Will I need to work for the Department after graduating?

Possibly. The Department's bursary agreement says recipients agree, if the Department requires it, to serve the Department or its public entities for one year for each year funded. Employment is not guaranteed, and refusing an offer of employment makes you liable to repay the bursary.